Plans for Shawlands civic square move forward

Gillian Loney

The future of Langside Hall is up for debate again as the Shawlands Town Centre Action Plan submits a proposal for a civic square outside.

Launched in 2012, the action plan brought together partners including Glasgow City Council, Shawlands and Strathbungo Community Council and Shawlands Business Association to allocate a £3.3 million investment to improving the area.

Now, the council will present design proposals at an event at Langside Hall on November 21, 10am-6pm.

The event follows a consultation in 2014, and more than 160 views submitted by neighours.

It is hoped that the civic square would be the heart of the Shawlands cultural quarter, boosting events already taking place such as the farmers market, and more nearby in Langside Hall, The Shed and The Glad Cafe.

Councillor Archie Graham, chair of the steering group, said: “While a great deal has already been achieved to develop Shawlands as a shopping, dining, entertainment and cultural destination over the past few years, the creation of a new civic square could take the area to the next level.

“I look forward to discovering the views of people who come along to see the proposals.”

Projects already delivered through the action plan include a digital animation studio developed in collaboration with Shawlands Academy, and the designation of Shawlands Cross as a conservation area, as well as footpath and lighting improvements to Kilmarnock Road.

GCC promises more improvements to footpaths in early 2016, new crossings at The Granary, a new taxi rank on Kilmarnock Road and a shop front improvement programme.

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